Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Lexington Mayor Proposes $539.2 Million Budget Focusing on Safety and Infrastructure

Community leaders discussing Lexington's budget proposals

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News Summary

Mayor Linda Gorton of Lexington has proposed a budget of $539.2 million for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on public safety and infrastructure improvements while avoiding tax increases. Key allocations include funding for police and fire vehicles, parks, and homelessness initiatives. The budget also outlines significant investments in sewer improvements and sustainability projects. With anticipated revenue growth of 5.6% and an emphasis on community needs, the proposal aims to foster city development without raising taxes.

Lexington – Mayor Linda Gorton has put forward a proposed budget of $539.2 million for the City of Lexington’s 2025-26 fiscal year, prioritizing public safety and infrastructure enhancements without implementing any tax increases. This proposed budget is designed to address the growth in the city while responding to both community needs and recent challenges, including winter weather disruptions.

The proposed fiscal plan anticipates a 5.6% growth in revenue, a reflection of ongoing economic development, while expenses are expected to grow by 9%. The budget includes an $18 million bond issue and outlines $47 million in planned capital spending aimed at crucial city projects.

Public safety remains a primary focus in the budget, with significant funding allocations that include $3.2 million for replacing police patrol vehicles and $4.8 million for upgrading fire department vehicles. This encompasses the acquisition of a heavy rescue vehicle, two fire engines, and a new emergency medical vehicle. Additionally, $3 million has been earmarked for the design of a new Fire Training Academy, geared towards enhancing the preparedness of city firefighters.

The budget also prioritizes support for parks and community services, with $8 million dedicated to a new parks capital fund aimed at city-wide development projects. Among the initiatives, $400,000 is allocated for the proposed Lexington Children’s Museum, highlighting a commitment to community engagement and education.

Infrastructure improvements form a significant part of the budget, with allocations including $28 million for sewer improvements and building renovations. To support homelessness initiatives, the budget includes funding for a new Encampment Coordinator position within the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention and $60,000 to expand the panhandling program, increasing service days each week to assist vulnerable populations.

Specific infrastructure allocations consist of $1.2 million for the Mason Headley corridor and $500,000 for upgrades to the recycling system, aimed at improving sustainability in the community. A further $250,000 is designated for a second phase study regarding a proposed solar farm at the Haley Pike landfill, aligning with broader goals of environmental responsibility.

In a bid to enhance safety at the Fayette County Detention Center, the budget proposes $216,000 for a new cell monitoring system, aimed at increasing both efficiency and security measures within the facility.

Overall, the proposed budget reflects the city’s commitment to fostering growth and addressing the needs of its citizens. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is scheduled to review the budget, which must receive approval before it can take effect on July 1, marking the start of the new fiscal year. The successful passage of this budget will enable Lexington to pursue these critical investments in public safety, infrastructure, and community development.